How did these seven political big dogs react to the latest Brexit news?

According to the BBC, there has been a significant “breakthrough” in stage one of the Brexit negotiation, which will move the two sides on to the next phase. There has been mixed reaction from key figures right across the British isles.

1. Keir Starmer

Labour’s would-be Brexit Secretary Keir Starmer has urged the government to think about its approach. In a tweet on early Friday morning, the Former Director of Public Prosecutions called the past year’s approach one of “chaos and confusion”.

2. Ruth Davidson

The Scottish Conservative leader has praised the direction that the talks have taken.

“Throughout this progress, my overriding priority has been to ensure we act as one United Kingdom and no home nation is left behind. I am therefore glad that this morning’s agreement ensures the integrity of the UK."

3. Boris Johnson

The sometimes off-script foreign secretary made his intentions clear that he backed the government - and Theresa May specifically – over the progress with the EU.

Congratulations to PM for her determination in getting today's deal. We now aim to forge a deep and special partnership with our European friends and allies while remaining true to the referendum result - taking back control of our laws, money and borders for the whole of the UK.

4. Nicola Sturgeon

In what at first appears to be a surprising move, Scotland’s first minister said that the move to stage two of talks were “good”, however, she warned that the “devil is in the detail” and that any “special arrangements for NI must be available to other UK nations”.

5. Vince Cable

The Liberal Democrat leader said that the progress was “welcome” as it “reduces the risk of a catastrophic No Deal Brexit”. He then reiterated calls for a referendum on the final Brexit deal.

7. Leo Varadkar

Ireland’s prime minister said his side had achieved what it set out to do in the first stage. He went on to say that, “This is not the end but it is the end of the beginning.”

We have achieved all we set out to achieve in Phase 1. This is not the end but it is the end of the beginning. The Good Friday Agreement is fully protected & the Common Travel Area will continue. The UK is committed to avoiding a hard border. #Brexitpic.twitter.com/kMxIMgBuAn

Richard Wood

Richard Wood is a Masters student in Political Research at the University of Aberdeen and is Head of Media for campaign-group TalkPolitics. Other than politics, he is passionate about travel, running, and writing, as well as all things space-related.